Mental Health and Your Teen

Mental Health and Your Teen

Stress and worry are a typical part of not only raising a teenager, but also being a teenager. For instance, not making the cut for the football team, breaking up with a girlfriend, fighting with friends, bombing a major test, moving to a new town, or switching schools can be stressful for any teenager. Because of this, it’s sometimes hard to know when resulting behaviors are expected and when you should seek help for your teen. How do you know if his or her behavior is “normal”?

First, it is important to note that “normal” is a misleading word. So much of what someone does depends on his or her environment, experiences, family history, and beliefs. What is familiar for one teen and family may not be familiar for the next. That is important to keep in mind when evaluating the level of stress in your teenager.

It’s important to look at your teen’s expected behavior, and determine how much of a change you see in that behavior. Consider what is “normal” or expected from your teen. As a caregiver, you may notice that something has changed or seems drastically different, like a once talkative teen suddenly no longer has anything to say and is hiding out in her room. Or a straight “A” student has unexpectedly been caught skipping school and fighting with his teachers.

When your teenager’s behavior has changed, causing you concern, it can be helpful to seek support for your family. Sometimes, just a simple “check in” can help you determine if more help is needed. You have options!

Call us at 970.347.2120 to make an appointment with one of our therapists who specialize in issues that youth and families face.